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Within the European research programme IDEA (Integrated Diesel European Action), detailed experimental and theoretical studies of the fundamental phenomena of the Diesel engine like flow, injection, mixture formation, auto-ignition, combustion and pollutant formation were carried out to improve knowledge and to set up models for a simulation code. Because this basic research of the Diesel combustion process is very complex and cost intensive, it was carried out jointly by the JRC (Joint Research Committee), an association of European car manufacturers (Fiat, Peugeot SA, Renault, Volvo and Volkswagen). The activities were also subsidized by the Commission of the European Communities and the Swedish National Board of Technical Development. The results of the research work will support the design of even more efficient engines and the further reduction of soot and NOx emissions and will also enable the companies to reduce time and cost in developing new engines.

From the demands on the development of cars the criteria for the development of engines are derived. It follows from the thermodynamic analysis that the Diesel engine has still a big development potential. In addition to the low fuel consumption it is well known for its low emissions and its multi-fuel ability. From a discussion of the fuel combustion and soot/NOx formation the research needed on the Diesel engine may be derived. Basic research on the Diesel engine is very complex and costly. Therefors in Europe it is carried out jointly by an association of European car manufacturers (Fiat, Peugeot SA, Renault, Volvo and Volkswagen). Following on initial investigation and modelling of the flow in the cylinder and the flame propagation a joint European project called IDEA (Integrated Diesel European Action) was started. These activities are also subsidized by the Commission of the European Communities and the National Swedish National Board for Industrial and Technical Development.